Adil Raza Khan | March 29, 2025
One of the most common questions from expats and non-residents is if they can buy property in Dubai. And the answer is yes, absolutely. Generally, Dubai has opened its doors to foreign investors and has implemented regulations that attract global investments. Understandably, these investment opportunities for foreigners are also met with certain conditions.
Let’s dive into the details.
In Dubai, foreigners and expatriate residents are allowed to purchase and have rights in areas known as freehold zones.
In essence, there are two ownership rights in Dubai, freehold and leasehold.
Consequently, most foreign investors opt for freehold ownership rights, while some prefer short-term leasehold ownership. Additionally, there is no age limit for owning a property in Dubai for foreigners.
Freehold areas and leasehold areas are the main choices where foreigners buy property in Dubai. To add, the type of properties that you buy will reflect on your investment goals. Let’s take a look at the two main options.
Freehold property in Dubai for foreigners is the most popular choice because they offer 100% ownership of both the property and the land it’s built on. As the owner, you can lease, sell, or modify the property as you please. Accordingly, these freehold areas are designated by the Dubai Land Department. Some of the most sought-after Dubai freehold areas are:
Freehold zones are typically located in well-connected areas close to essential destinations.
If you’re buying a property in Dubai but are not looking for full ownership, the leasehold properties are a good option. In contrast to freehold properties, you do not own the property or land in a leasehold area. However, you are entitled to use and benefit from it for up to 99 years. After which, the ownership will revert back to the freehold owner. Additionally, you will not be able to change or remodel the property without permission from the freeholder.
Popular leasehold zones where foreigners buy property in Dubai include:
Yes. Foreigners can buy commercial properties in Dubai, whether that be office spaces, retail units, industry facilities, and more. Similarly, commercial properties in Dubai are also categorized between freezone areas and leasehold areas. The freezone areas like Business Bay and Jebel Ali grant foreigners full ownership rights for commercial properties. Meanwhile, leasehold zones such as Dubai Investment Park and Dubai Industrial City only permit limited rights on commercial properties for up to 99 years.
Buying properties through mortgages is not only for Emiratis because foreigners can buy properties in Dubai through mortgages. However, there are several general conditions you need to know before applying for a mortgage.
Some banks only give mortgages from their list of approved projects and developers.
In essence, foreigners can buy properties in Dubai and have two types of ownership options. Freehold and leasehold have their own benefits and considerations that you need to take into account. Additionally, you can even invest in residential or commercial properties and apply for a mortgage. Since its implementation of new rules in 2002, Dubai has opened up a more welcoming real estate market for non-UAE nationals. The city is bound for more changes and more advantageous property laws for foreigners. Hence, now is a great time for foreigners to buy property in Dubai. Plus, with a reliable partner like APIL Properties, you can ensure a simple and trusty process.
Foreigners can buy properties in freehold or freezone areas and leasehold areas. Depending on your investment goal, you can opt for full ownership rights or a limited ownership option.
Yes. Foreigners can buy properties for business purposes.
Yes. Foreigners can have up to an 80% mortgage to buy property in Dubai. Additionally, there are certain conditions that investors have to meet before getting a mortgage. This includes age limit, monthly income, specific developers and projects, and the country of origin.
WRITTEN BY
Adil Khan is a Dubai luxury real estate expert with over 13 years of experience in the UAE property market. He is the Chairman of APIL Properties.
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